Boy, 11, ignores racist abuse and sings anthem again

An 11-year-old mariachi singer who became the subject of racist abuse after performing the US national anthem at a basketball game this week has defied critics and performed again to the sound of rapturous applause.

Sebastien de la Cruz first performed the national anthem before an NBA Finals game between the Spurs and Miami Heat in his hometown of San Antonio, Texas, on Tuesday.

But the 11-year-old faced a barrage of negative comments and racist abuse on social media websites following the performance, triggering a backlash from supporters of the boy.

The story made headlines around the world with many condemning the racist remarks and praising the talented youngster.

Sebastien was asked to perform the anthem again at Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Thursday night after singer Darius Rucker pulled out at the last minute.

The young singer’s stunning rendition was met with raptures applause from crowds at the game and handshakes from coaches of both teams.

Sebastien, also known as "El Charro de Oro," or the boy with the golden voice, told Kens5 News he hadn't let the racist abuse affect him following his earlier performance.

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"With the racist remarks, it was just people how they were raised," he said.

"My father and my mama told me you should never judge people how they look."

San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro was one of many to express support for the boy, tweeting: "Sebastien de la Cruz, your rendition of the national anthem was spectacular! Don't let a few negative voices get you down."